West Sacramento, Calif. — Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) honored Amon Tibon with the William French Award posthumously. RCAC’s Board of Directors will present the award to Amon Tibon’s family during a virtual ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 23.

Mr. Tibon was the managing director for the Marshall Islands Development Bank (MIDB).  He was instrumental in the Marshall Islands’ efforts to launch the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Mutual Self-Help Housing program. MIDB completed 150 self-help homes, and Mr. Tibon’s determination and commitment to the self-help program made this possible for the Marshallese people. He also assisted with the self-help program launch in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia.

“It is a great pleasure to honor Mr. Tibon’s lifelong achievements and dedication to the Marshallese people and his work to ensure their affordable housing access through the self-help housing program,” said Suzanne Anarde, Chief Executive Officer.

RCAC’s board of directors created the William French Award in 2007 to honor the life work of William (Bill) French, RCAC’s CEO for its first 30 years. Bill French received the first award, which honored Bill’s ability to start, grow and sustain an institution that has had significant impact on rural communities.

RCAC gives the award every two years to honor rural individuals who demonstrate lifetime achievements of leadership in rural development, building and sustaining an organization that benefits rural communities, and community leadership that has a regional impact.

Founded in 1978, RCAC provides training, technical and financial resources and advocacy so rural communities can achieve their goals and visions. RCAC serves rural communities in 13 western states and western Pacific islands. Services are available to communities with populations of fewer than 50,000, other nonprofit groups, Tribal organizations, farmworkers, colonias and other specific populations. RCAC staff provides direct services in collaboration with local and community partnerships in three program areas: affordable housing, environmental services, and lending. About RCAC

Contact:

Julia Helmreich, director
Communications, Development and Events
(916) 447-9832 ext. 1008
jhelmreich@rcac.org